Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Appointments topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Ceres council appoints Francisco Morales to planning commission after interviews
Summary
After interviewing two applicants, the council appointed Francisco Morales to a vacant planning commission seat 3–2, with members citing his in‑person attendance and prior nonprofit leadership as strengths. Staff also agreed to recruit for the additional vacancy created by a resignation.
The Ceres City Council on Nov. 10 appointed Francisco Morales to a planning commission seat in a 3–2 vote after interviewing Morales (in person) and Kelly Cerny (via Zoom).
Staff explained that Commissioner Ishwar Gill resigned effective immediately, creating a seat through Dec. 31, 2026, and that another seat would become vacant on Jan. 1, 2026. The council discussed options—appoint both applicants, interview then appoint, or recruit for the newly vacated seat—and voted to proceed with interviews and a later recruitment for the additional vacancy.
Francisco Morales, who attended in person, emphasized leadership experience and community commitment, cited nonprofit work preserving local culture and scholarships, and said he favored well‑planned, higher‑density housing to preserve farmland. Kelly Cerny, appearing by Zoom, cited attention to detail, county planning experience (24 years at Stanislaus County), volunteer work with local schools and civic groups, and also supported higher‑density choices to preserve agricultural land.
During deliberations council members complimented both applicants’ qualifications; Vice Mayor Martinez and other members indicated Francisco’s in‑person attendance was a practical advantage. Vice Mayor Martinez moved to appoint Francisco Morales and Councilmember Viera seconded. The roll call vote was recorded as: Casey — no; Viera — yes; Otero — no (but commended Cerny’s interview); Martinez — aye; Mayor Lopez — yes. Motion carries 3–2.
What happens next: the council will conduct a separate recruitment for the immediate vacancy and determine term lengths (which seat is filled through 2026 vs. the longer term), as discussed during the appointments item.
